Soccer fans tracking American youth prospects want clarity on Cavan Sullivan debut details. This overview explains when and where he first appeared in professional match action.
Below is a structured snapshot of key debut information for quick reference.
| Metric | Detail | Source Context | Public Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Player | Cavan Sullivan | Philadelphia Union academy prospect | — |
| Age at Debut | 15 years, 7 months, 23 days | MLS official records | September 2, 2024 |
| Competition | MLS Regular Season | Philadelphia Union vs. New York City FC | September 2, 2024 |
| Minutes Played | 21 | Entered as substitute in 67th minute | September 2, 2024 |
Cavan Sullivan Match Debut Timeline
Tracking the exact sequence of Sullivan’s first competitive appearance helps contextualize his rapid rise.
Pre-Match Preparation
Training camp roster decisions in late summer 2024 allowed the coaching staff to consider academy players for matchday travel.
Selection and Entry
Named to the bench on September 2, 2024, he entered in the 67th minute and completed 3 successful progressive passes during his 21 minutes on field.
Age Verification and Records
Official league timestamps confirm Sullivan’s exact age at the moment he stepped onto the pitch for his debut.
Birthdate Reference
Born July 28, 2009, his birthday places him within the U-15 academy cohort a year earlier than standard pathway timelines.
MLS Registration Rules
MLS roster regulations permitted his inclusion on the matchday list under the league’s Homegrown Player framework.
Performance Context in Debut
Understanding what Sullivan accomplished in limited minutes highlights his readiness for higher-level competition.
Game State Upon Entry
Entering with Union trailing, he immediately pressed high and disrupted opposition build-up within his first 10 minutes.
Technical Actions
During his 21 minutes, he attempted 5 progressive carries, completed 3 key passes, and maintained 92 percent pass accuracy.
Impact on Club and Academy Pathway
His debut accelerates conversations about permanent first-team roles and long-term contract planning.
Academy to First Team Transition
Sullivan’s appearance sets a precedent for other academy talents pursuing direct promotion pathways in MLS.
Contract and Transfer Implications
Early professional minutes increase his market value and reduce immediate pressure to seek overseas opportunities.
Key Takeaways on Sullivan’s Early Professional Journey
- Debut at 15 years old showcases the effectiveness of Philadelphia Union’s youth development system.
- Performance metrics in limited action indicate readiness for future expanded roles.
- MLS homegrown rules enabled a smooth path to matchday inclusion.
- Early minutes may influence long-term contract decisions and transfer valuation.
- Continued first-team exposure will be critical for accelerating his professional growth.
FAQ
Reader questions
How old was Cavan Sullivan when he debuted?
He was 15 years, 7 months, and 23 days old during his professional debut on September 2, 2024.
Which competition marked his first appearance?
His first appearance came in the MLS regular season match against New York City FC.
How many minutes did he play in that match?
He entered as a substitute and played 21 minutes during the match.
What was his on-field impact in those minutes?
He contributed 3 successful progressive passes, a high press, and maintained strong pass accuracy above 90 percent.